GLSEN to honor Chely Wright, Barclays Capital, Susie Scher and Allison Grover at Respect Awards — New York on May 23

NEW YORK - GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, will honor Barclays Capital, Chely Wright, Susie Scher and Allison Grover, and the 2011 Educator of the Year, presented by Sodexo, at its eighth annual Respect Awards - New York, presented by KPMG, on Monday, May 23rd at Gotham Hall.

The Respect Awards, held annually in Los Angeles and New York, give GLSEN the opportunity to showcase the work of corporations, individuals, students and educators who have made a significant difference in the areas of diversity, inclusion and the Safe Schools Movement, and who serve as exemplary role models.

"GLSEN is thrilled to honor our partners and community supporters who work tirelessly toward our shared vision of safe and welcoming schools for all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression," said GLSEN Executive Director Eliza Byard. "We are proud to recognize Barclays Capital, Chely Wright, Susie Scher and Allison Grover, and our 2011 Educator of the Year."

This year, GLSEN will offer four awards to recognize efforts to ensure schools are safe for all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression:

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion Award: Barclays Capital, accepted by Jerry del Missier, Co-Chief Executive Officer
Barclays Capital has been a long standing GLSEN partner. Through its flagship community investment program, Banking on Brighter Futures, the bank draws on its expertise and skills to support organizations that help provide brighter futures to those most in need. Barclays recently proved its leadership when it became the first financial services company in the country to introduce a tax reimbursement for same-sex domestic partner benefits. The bank's commitment to GLSEN is another demonstration of that same leadership.

Inspiration Award: Chely Wright Chely Wright is an award-winning singer and songwriter with a meaningful history in the country music industry. Since Chely publicly came "out" on May 5th, 2010, she has been a tremendous force for change and a voice for GLSEN. As the lead spokesperson for GLSEN's Safe Space Campaign, Chely promotes and supports GLSEN's critical work at every turn. Chely chose the 2010 Respect Awards - New York for her first public speaking role at an LGBT event, and it is an honor to have her back this year taking the stage for the award she so deserves.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Susie Scher & Allison Grover Susie and Allison have been important and unwavering supporters of GLSEN. Both hold senior positions at Goldman Sachs and have been the driving force behind the Goldman-GLSEN relationship. Allison and Susie are also personally invested in GLSEN, both as significant funders as well as volunteers. Susie has previously served as a co-chair of Respect Awards - New York and Allison recently hosted an anti-bullying event for the entire Goldman Sachs firm. Susie and Allison are married and live in New York City with their three children.

Educator of the Year, presented by Sodexo: TBD After a nationwide search, GLSEN will present our 2011 Educator of the Year at this year's Respect Awards - New York.

About GLSEN
GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students. Established in 1990, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.